While spring break destinations often conjure up images of loud, late-night parties and college kids as far as the eye can see, the cities on this list fail to cater to the college crowd but instead offer an attractive mix of great restaurants, fun attractions, and outdoor recreation perfect for families seeking a little quality time.

“An ideal destination provides a wide range of activities for families with children of different ages and interests,” says Annette Thompson, Society of American Travel Writers board member, freelance travel writer and photographer. Editors asked members of the SATW for their expert opinions on what makes a city a fantastic place for a spring break vacation.

“There should be things to do both indoors and outdoors as the weather is not something even the best itinerary can predict,” Thompson says.

Livability.com editors looked at dozens of cities – both traditional destinations and off-the-beaten-path gems – before narrowing the list to 10. The list is diverse and includes adventure cities, ski destinations, lake jaunts and beaches to help plan a better spring break for families.

From the desert oasis of Lake Amistad in Del Rio, TX, to America's oldest landscaped gardens in Charleston, SC, Thompson says the list is “a good mixture of top-notch, once-in-a-decade type spots blended with small one-of-a-kind places that appeal to today's savvy traveler.”